Nature markets

Nature markets are mechanisms for private investment in nature. They involve the sale of biodiversity net gain units or ecosystem services (e.g. woodland and peatland carbon units), generated by projects that restore habitats or improve land management.

LUC can help you look for opportunities to blend these payments with public, philanthropic, or corporate social responsibility funding to deliver positive outcomes for nature and people.

We can evaluate your site and identify potential land use changes for nature restoration. We carefully consider the goals of land managers, broader catchment visions, marketable ecosystem services, high-level costs, and necessary permits. 

Our team conducts feasibility studies, geospatial analysis, and develops baseline data to inform appropriate land use changes and habitat enhancements. We actively explore opportunities to work with neighbouring landowners.

Our team thoroughly researches the latest sale prices and works to build a clear understanding of both buyer and seller requirements.

We can assess potential revenue streams from the sale of ecosystem services. We establish a robust baseline and estimate units generated (e.g. Biodiversity Net Gain, Woodland Carbon Code, Peatland Carbon Code) by proposed land use changes.

Alongside payments for ecosystem services, we can explore eligibility for grant funding and philanthropic and CSR funding opportunities. We also research bespoke deals for ecosystem benefits, for example, water companies paying for land use changes that deliver water quality improvements.

We work with expert partners to develop financial models that integrate multiple revenue streams and cost data, and identify and engage with potential investors where upfront investment is required.